MR SEDDON FURTHER EXPLAINS.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Volume IX, Issue 693, 18 June 1903, Page 21

MR SEDDON FURTHER EXPLAINS.

THE ISITT VIEW.

Speaking on the liquor question to a “ Wellington Times ” representative, on Monday, Mr Seddon repeated that the committee should not arrogate to themselves the powers which are vested in the Legislature alone. “ And not only that,” he continued, “ but they make themselves ■ridiculous, especially when, as in the case of the Dunedin Committee, the Chairman has afterwards publicly and officially stated that the law would not support the Committee in what it had indicated it was About to do.” “ Has the Government finally decided yet as to whether it will bring in any liquor legislation during the session ?” “ Now, you are asking too much,” said Mr. Seddon. “All the Ministers! are here now, and full meetings of the Cabinet will bei the order for the week. The action of the Government may be precipitated or otherwise by the actions of the Committees. At all events, it is the duty of the Government, as well as of Parliament, to see that the existing law is adhered to, and if any amendment is required to make it perfect, I think the people of Port Chal--1 mers should not be denied the right of having their petition heard through the mistake of a magistrate. There seems to be a missing link in the law in respect to the situation in Bruce and Newtown. As thisi matter is before the law courts you will excuse me not saying anything further.” ■ ' The Rev. F. W. Isitt, interviewed by the “ Wellington Post,”' says that the Premier’s! suggestions for substituting magistrates for elective licensing committees, and for colonial in place of local option, will be determinedly opposed by the Prohibition party. If he persists the Premier will meet with such solid and energetic political opposition as he never hitherto •contemplated.